In celebration of the 10th anniversary of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP), the district administration, in collaboration with the District Hub for Empowerment of Women, Kohima, organised an awareness session on mental health alongside a plantation drive on February 14 at Dr. N. Kire Government Higher Secondary School.
Psychologist, Naga Hospital Authority Kohima, Dietholenuo Liezietsu, provided a detailed explanation on mental health among adolescents. She defined mental health as a state of well-being where individuals recognize their abilities, cope with life’s stresses, work productively, and contribute to their community.
She emphasized that mental health should not be seen as a weakness but as a natural part of being human. Liezietsu discussed the various complications faced by adolescents, including physical, mental, hormonal, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral changes.
She highlighted issues like identity crises, stress, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and substance abuse, urging students to seek support from elders, teachers, counselors, or the church. She warned that if not addressed, these issues could lead to further problems, such as drug and alcohol abuse. To prevent such challenges, she recommended enhancing social skills, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence.
Earlier, the program was chaired by Gender Specialist, District Hub for Empowerment of Women, Kohima, Kesoneinuo Kense and a plantation drive was also carried out in the premises of the school to commemorate 10 years of BBBP celebration.